The Heart is the Key

Our sweet youngest granddaughter, photo taken last summer ...

The heart of a child ... so fragile, and of most importance. As mothers, we hold the hearts of our precious children, hearts entrusted to our care and nurturing. It is a sacred trust, and also an overwhelming responsibility at times. 

How do you focus on the heart of a child day in and day out, when your own heart is pulled in so many directions? When the cares of the world (what we will eat, what we will wear, how we will make ends meet, etc.) occupy our minds? Getting meals on the table, keeping our homes clean, meeting our husband's needs, caring for extended family, dealing with conflict and illness ... all these things occupy our minds and hearts. And in the midst of all the busyness swirling around us constantly, the hearts of our children call for our attention.

Such was (and is) the case for me, mother of six (now grown) children. There were times (many) when I would see a heart in need, and I would drop everything to look into tearful eyes and give love and direction. And there were times (more than I like) when I would neglect to stop, and I would miss the moment to deeply love and guide. 

As the busyness of life seems to accelerate more with each passing year, we, as moms, need to pause and remember ... hearts are of most importance.

"Guard your heart above all else,

for it determines the course of your life."

(Proverbs 4:23 NLT) 

Guarding our children's hearts, and our own hearts. Not just the putting on of outward behavior that will make things look good, but taking the time to tenderly cultivate a healthy heart. 

Cultivating our own hearts takes time ... taking time to slow down, and taking time to listen to the One who made our hearts. And also focusing on listening to each other. The word that I have picked to focus on this year ... listen. The word that brings health to my own heart. And the word that brings health to my (grown) children's hearts, and also to my grandchildren's hearts. 

Pausing, and listening. Even on busy days. Even this next week, when our home will be filled with family. All our grown kids home with their families, my three brothers and their families here (from the east coast and the west coast) ... all gathering to celebrate my father's 90th birthday. Also celebrating our 40th anniversary, as well as my older brother & sister-in-law's 40th anniversary! 

Loving Lord, thank you for the priceless privilege of mothering. And for reminding me again ... in my busyness, to focus on listening. Help us to slow down as mothers, to listen, and to care for hearts. Just as You call for us to pause, and to listen to You ...

"I can do my best handiwork

when you sit in the stillness of My Presence,

focusing your entire being on Me."

(Jesus Calling)

Linked to Imperfect Prose

And also linked to Faith Barista

Also to Brag on God Friday's